Zoox asks federal regulators for exemption to launch a commercial robotaxi service | TechCrunch

"Zoox has asked federal regulators for an exemption that would allow the Amazon-owned autonomous vehicle company to commercially deploy its custom-built robotaxis, which lack traditional controls like pedals and a steering wheel. The exemption request was first reported by Bloomberg. A Zoox spokesperson confirmed that it has submitted a petition for a "555 exemption" and continues to work closely with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration through this new exemption process."

"The request follows two milestones that puts Zoox closer to operating a commercial robotaxi service. Earlier this month, Zoox launched a free robotaxi service that is open to the public in Las Vegas. And in August, NHTSA gave Zoox an exemption to demonstrate its custom-built robotaxis on public roads. While the August exemption cleared up a longstanding debate over whether Zoox's custom-built autonomous vehicles complied with federal motor vehicle safety standards, it only covered research and demonstrations on public roads."

Zoox requested a temporary exemption from eight Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards to commercially deploy its custom-built robotaxis that lack pedals and a steering wheel. The company filed a petition described as a "555 exemption" and said it is coordinating with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. NHTSA is reviewing the application and will publish a notice seeking public comment after initial review. Zoox recently launched a free public robotaxi service in Las Vegas and earlier received an exemption to demonstrate its vehicles on public roads under the agency's Automated Vehicle Exemption Program. The new exemption would permit commercial operations beyond demonstrations.

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